spaghetti

Classic Spaghetti with Meat Sauce

Simple, rich, and comforting — this is a go-to spaghetti recipe with a flavorful homemade meat sauce.

 Ingredients (Serves 4–6)

• 1 lb spaghetti

• 1 lb ground beef (or half beef, half Italian sausage)

• 1 small onion, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 (24 oz) jar marinara sauce or 2 cups crushed tomatoes

• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, for texture)

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• ½ tsp salt (adjust to taste)

• ½ tsp black pepper

• ½ tsp sugar (optional, balances acidity)

• 2 tbsp olive oil

For serving:
Grated Parmesan, fresh basil, red pepper flakes

 Instructions

1. Cook the pasta
   Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
   Cook spaghetti according to package directions until al dente.
   Reserve ½ cup pasta water, then drain.

2. Make the sauce
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
   Add onion and cook 3–4 minutes until soft.
   Stir in garlic and cook 30 seconds.

3. Brown the meat
   Add ground beef and cook until fully browned. Drain excess grease.

4. Build flavor
   Stir in marinara (or crushed tomatoes), diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and sugar.
   Simmer uncovered 15–20 minutes, stirring occasionally.

5. Combine
   Toss drained spaghetti with sauce.
   Add a splash of reserved pasta water if needed to loosen the sauce.

6. Serve
   Top with Parmesan and fresh basil.

 Easy Upgrades

• Add ¼ cup red wine while simmering.

• Stir in a spoonful of butter at the end for richness.

• Add sautéed mushrooms or bell peppers.

• Finish with a drizzle of good olive oil.